The Man the Anzacs Revered: William “Fighting Mac” McKenzie, Anzac Chaplain

This is the story of William McKenzie, whose tireless work as a Salvation Army chaplain among the Anzacs in World War I earned him the nickname 'Fighting Mac'. Though he spoke out against booze, brothels, betting, and bad language - favourite vices of the troops - he was much loved and respected.

William McKenzie was once one of the most famous of the Anzacs, a legend for his work on Gallipoli and in France. McKenzie was a Salvation Army Chaplain, a species of non-combatant officer usually held in low esteem. He railed against booze, brothels, betting and bad language. Yet he was revered by the soldiers-and by many on the home front as well.